What does dorsiflexion refer to?

Dorsiflexion refers to the action that involves bending or flexing the foot at the ankle joint in a direction that brings the toes closer to the shin. This motion decreases the angle between the dorsum (the upper part of the foot) and the anterior surface of the leg. The term is specifically used in anatomical contexts to describe movements that occur in an upward direction.

Backward flexion or bending, although it might seem related, pertains more to the general concept of flexion rather than specifically indicating the upward movement of the foot towards the leg. Therefore, it is essential to understand dorsiflexion independently as it specifically describes the movement of the foot rather than aspects of the entire body or other movements like inward or outward turning.